Turmeric has been used as an alternative medicine for thousands of years. It has been used to treat many diseases and conditions, including stomach problems and digestive issues.

I.What are the benefits of turmeric?

Turmeric is rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. In traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric has been used to relieve arthritis pain and regulate menstruation. It’s also been used to improve digestion and liver function.Today, turmeric is recognized as an alternative therapy for heartburn, inflammation, and stomach ulcers.If you eat curry, you’ve consumed turmeric. It’s the ingredient that gives curry its spicy flavor and vibrant color.Turmeric’s most active ingredient is called curcumin. It’s thought to be responsible for most of turmeric’s health benefits.Curcumin is a polyphenol antioxidant. It’s said to have potent antiviral, antibacterial, and anticancer capabilities.

Curcumin is responsible for most of turmeric’s health benefits – google image 

II.What the research says

Although many studies have explored the medicinal properties of turmeric and its extract curcumin, there isn’t any research focused on acid reflux.Overall, there isn’t enough evidence to support the use of turmeric for any health condition. More research is needed to determine its effectiveness in people.According to a 2007 study, acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may be caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. The study suggests GERD should be treated with antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.A separate study in 2011 showed that the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin prevented esophageal inflammation.Turmeric and its extract curcumin are both said to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Because of this, turmeric may relieve GERD.More research is currently underway. A 2019 article presented some insight on the anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activity of curcumin in the treatment of issues in the digestive tract.Curcumin protects the gut from damage from NSAIDs and other noxious agents. It has a role in keeping the bacteria associated with ulcers in check, helps ulcers heal, and it works actively on killing cancer cells in the gut.

GERD should be treated with antioxidants and anti-inflammatories – google image 

III.How to use turmeric to treat acid reflux

Turmeric’s stems, or rhizomes, can be dried and ground into a powder. The powder can be taken orally or used when cooking.Unless you add turmeric to all of your recipes or drink a lot of turmeric tea, it may be difficult for you to consume enough turmeric to treat acid reflux. Organic turmeric extract supplements may be a better way to get medicinal amounts.Your body absorbs turmeric and curcumin poorly. The spice and its extract are both rapidly metabolized by your liver and intestinal wall.Various methods of delivery have been explored to increase the bioavailability of curcumin. None have taken hold at this time.One way to increase turmeric’s absorption is to consume it with piperine. It’s commonly found in black pepper.Turmeric and black pepper are often sold together in supplements. The pepper increases the absorption and action of the turmeric. When choosing turmeric supplements, look for brands that have black pepper extract or piperine listed as an ingredient.

Turmeric extract supplements may be a better way to get medicinal amounts – Kentary photo

IV.Risks and warnings

Turmeric is a natural blood thinner. You shouldn’t take turmeric if you take drugs that thin your blood or if you have an upcoming surgery.Turmeric may also lower blood sugar, lower blood pressure, and make gallbladder problems worse.Some people report that turmeric actually makes acid reflux worse. This may be due to its peppery qualities.Taking turmeric for a long period of time or in high doses may increase your risk of indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea.

If so, this treatment may not be the best approach for you, and you should discontinue treatment.Turmeric has also caused liver damage in mice when taken long term. No liver damage has been reported in people.If you’re on any medication, talk to your doctor before you begin any herbs or supplements, especially herbs such as turmeric that can have serious reactions with many different drugs.Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding shouldn’t use excessive amounts of turmeric. Anything more than what’s typically used when cooking is considered excessive for this group.There’s a risk of allergic reaction with all natural remedies. If you experience symptoms such as hives, a fast heart rate, or difficulty breathing after using turmeric, you should discontinue use. If your symptoms are severe, you should seek medical attention.

Source: Healthline  

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